Thank you JV girls basketball sponsors and supporters

Courtesy photo
The Union County High School JV Girls Basketball Team thanks the businesses who have sponsored them and the fans who have supported and prayed for them this season. Pictured with the signs thanking their sponsors and supporters are (back row) Coach Kemp, Zaria Peake, Manager Mya Stevens, Ta’nyjha Thompson, Adriana Jeter, April Smith, Molly Worthy, Coach Cathcart, (front) Jada Giles, Manager Jaleah Foster, and Rachel Ann Cathcart.

To our sponsors/supporters,

As a volunteer, and mother of a JV athlete, I am writing this column — which purpose is twofold — to earnestly thank you, as well as share the positive impact from your generosity.

It is my privilege to have assisted Coach Brian Kemp for the past three seasons with the UCHS JV Girls Basketball, and while I can say they have all taught me life lessons, this season takes the cake! In what began with six players (that became seven), and a mountain before us, our approach was the same, ‘to finish strong!’

Before the season ever started, I received a text from Coach Kemp asking what I thought about ‘Conquer’ for our theme this year (we always have one). My mind went straight to Romans 8:37, and little did he know I had been thinking the very same thing. From the very first practice this was obvious, but if they were willing to give their all, we knew a great outcome was on the way.

After the scrimmages and first game, I felt we needed a pick me up. These girls were working hard and conditioning, but it’s difficult to play full roster teams that can send in five fresh players in any given quarter. Yet, they pressed on.

So, I asked my husband (Mark Cathcart) one morning, “do you think we could buy the girls some bags and have their names or numbers put on them?” Again, little did I know, Coach Kemp was thinking the same thing. Mark said “yes, do whatever you feel led.”

After pricing some items and estimating the cost, I went on to see if he knew anyone, or business, that may like to help. As that day unfolded, I can honestly say I saw the heart of Union County. (I am a Low Country girl from Andrews, SC, that married a boy from Buffalo, and was oblivious the day we wed, that he would bring me back to Union… I came kicking and screaming!)

By that night my husband had a list of businesses that said they would help, a check for $125, and $50 cash! I was amazed, and could not wait to tell Coach Kemp, Coach Kim Booker, and the girls. As the week went on, he had received $455 in support. What a difference it made, to then 6 girls, that the community was behind them. I watched as these young ladies overcame, pushed themselves, developed more positive attitudes, began to care for one another, and have fun. And ultimately, that IS what it’s all about. They wear their colors with pride, and could hardly wait for the jackets and bags to come in.

As I look back at the previous two seasons, which were a success, I had no idea that even without a ‘W’ on the book this season (as of the time of this letter), this would be a far more rewarding year. I’m reminded of Mordecai’s words to Queen Ester, “Who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). Oftentimes we fail to see how God’s plan is unfolding in our lives, because we tend to focus on the negative, and that makes us fearful of a challenge. I believe it took the past two seasons for God to prepare me for ‘such a time as this’ and appreciate the growth and development of a team not based on wins and losses.

As a parent, I hope that all who read this would be encouraged. I am proud to say my daughter plays for UCHS! I appreciate her coach, who has gone above and beyond to help, encourage, discipline, and care! These girls have worked hard, and I see it paying off, and not just in their physical condition! They also got to see how it’s not just a ‘school thing’ and that they are representatives for Union County (another thing Coach Kemp always reminds them of at away games). The businesses that helped also showed the girls this reality. This is why I chose to share my feelings, so you all could see what a difference you really do make!

I am proud to call Union my home. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank these businesses that gave, and the support of all who attend and pray for us. Thank you to the parents that bring them to practice, and thank you Coach Burke for allowing me to be a part of this.

To our players… we love you!

To our sponsors… we thank you!

To our future Lady Jackets… we want you!

God bless you all, and thank you for your time!

Let’s go Jackets!

Courtesy photo

The Union County High School JV Girls Basketball Team thanks the businesses who have sponsored them and the fans who have supported and prayed for them this season. Pictured with the signs thanking their sponsors and supporters are (back row) Coach Kemp, Zaria Peake, Manager Mya Stevens, Ta’nyjha Thompson, Adriana Jeter, April Smith, Molly Worthy, Coach Cathcart, (front) Jada Giles, Manager Jaleah Foster, and Rachel Ann Cathcart.

The Union County High School JV Girls Basketball Team thanks the businesses who have sponsored them and the fans who have supported and prayed for them this season. Pictured with the signs thanking their sponsors and supporters are (back row) Coach Kemp, Zaria Peake, Manager Mya Stevens, Ta’nyjha Thompson, Adriana Jeter, April Smith, Molly Worthy, Coach Cathcart, (front) Jada Giles, Manager Jaleah Foster, and Rachel Ann Cathcart.

By Cathleen Cathcart

Contributing columnist

Cathleen “Coach C” Cathcart is an assistant coach with the Union County High School JV Girls Basketball Team.

Cathleen “Coach C” Cathcart is an assistant coach with the Union County High School JV Girls Basketball Team.